"Rash mortal," said a voice, in tones that made his heart jump to his throat, "I think you are now as near as devout worshippers are wont to approach to my waves, though, as one of the initiated, the vestal nymphs of these caves bid you very welcome."
"I have kept my faith," Otto replied, pausing before the veiled apparition which sat on the rim of the fountain. "But your veil hides you as effectually from my gaze as a mountain."
His agitation betrayed itself in his wavering tones.
"Are you afraid," she asked, noting his hesitancy, "lest I should prove the fiend who tempted Cyprianus?"
"All fears redouble in the darkness. Let me see your face!"
"Why have you come here?"
"Why have you summoned me?"
"Perhaps to test your courage."
"I fear nothing!"
"One word of mine, one gesture,—and you are my prisoner."